Everton's Pre-Season Struggles

Everton's journey into the new season has been anything but smooth. Under the guidance of David Moyes, the team has drawn two and lost three of their pre-season matches, culminating in a disappointing bottom finish in the Premier League Summer Series table. This rocky start raises concerns about their readiness for the upcoming season.

The New Stadium and High Expectations

The move to the new Hill Dickinson Stadium was supposed to mark the beginning of a new era for Everton. With ambitious new owners and a manager who understands the club's ethos, expectations were high. However, the reality has been less than ideal, with Moyes expressing concerns over the team's integration and readiness.

Transfer Market Challenges

Moyes has been vocal about the need for new players, aiming to bring in up to nine new faces. So far, only three have been secured, leaving a significant gap. The recent signings of Thierno Barry from Villarreal and Adam Aznou from Bayern Munich are steps in the right direction, but Moyes feels it's asking too much for these newcomers to make an immediate impact.

Defensive Concerns and Future Prospects

Defensive stability remains a concern. James Tarkowski's return from injury is a positive, but Moyes knows it's not enough. The potential return of Jarrad Branthwaite could bolster the defense, but the team still lacks the solidity needed to compete at the highest level. Speculations around Jack Grealish's arrival add excitement, but Moyes remains cautious, focusing on more fundamental issues.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, Moyes remains optimistic. He acknowledges the teething problems but believes in the potential for a brighter future. His goal is to provide a team that Evertonians can be proud of and enjoy watching. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how Everton navigates these early hurdles and whether they can turn their fortunes around.